Vikrant Massey's remarkable ascent from a television sensation to a National Film Award-winning lead actor stands as a powerful testament to redefining the conventional "outsider" success narrative in Indian cinema. The acclaimed star of 12th Fail recently engaged in a candid conversation with the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) in Hyderabad, delving into his transformative shift to the big screen and the overwhelming recognition that followed his prestigious 71st National Film Award victory.
Early Fascination with Film Sets
"I was utterly captivated by the vibrant energy of film sets," Massey revealed, reflecting on his humble beginnings. Financial necessity drove him to leave home at just 16, with straightforward ambitions: to fund his education, secure a stable home, and eventually earn a monthly income of ₹1 lakh. Growing up in Andheri Versova, a hub for film shootings, he often found himself among the crowd of onlookers, mesmerized by the sight of legends like Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, and Sanjay Dutt in action. The dazzling lights, bustling walkie-talkies, and frantic script-runners ignited a deep-seated passion for the craft that would shape his future.
Overcoming Industry Skepticism
Despite carving a niche for himself on television with popular shows such as Balika Vadhu, Massey encountered significant doubt upon transitioning to films. "The pervasive misconception that TV actors lack acting prowess struck me hard—it was a painful blow that caught me off guard," he admitted. This bias bewildered him, especially considering the illustrious television origins of icons like Naseeruddin Shah, Shah Rukh Khan, Om Puri, and Irrfan Khan. Amid these hurdles, he clung to a steadfast belief: the authenticity of his performance between 'action' and 'cut' remained paramount, a principle he continues to uphold with unwavering conviction.
Performance Trumps Background
With over two decades of experience, Massey now asserts that true success in the industry stems from unwavering dedication and exceptional work quality, not mere connections. "Achievement never comes easily; it demands relentless effort and perseverance," he emphasized. For every role, he strives to present himself as a formidable contender, acknowledging that while an insider-outsider divide exists, it primarily affects initial access rather than long-term outcomes. In his view, talent and hard work ultimately level the playing field, proving that meritocracy can prevail in a competitive landscape.
The Transformative Power of 12th Fail
Massey shared a poignant anecdote about filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra's blunt assessment: "He told me honestly that while he aimed for a theatrical release, OTT platforms offered my work for free, questioning why audiences would pay to see me in cinemas." This harsh truth underscored the challenges he faced, yet 12th Fail emerged as a turning point. The film resonated deeply, not as a tale of an IPS officer, but as a mirror reflecting viewers' own struggles and aspirations. Massey described quietly slipping into theaters during final screenings, observing audiences from the back row. One particularly moving moment involved an elderly man seated beside him, who wept uncontrollably, his chest heaving as he gripped Massey's hand tightly. "That emotional connection made me realize I had created something enduring and impactful," Massey recounted, highlighting the film's profound cultural significance.
The FLO Hyderabad event, attended by figures like Rashmi Doshi, Rashi Agarwal, Prathibha Kunda (Chairperson), and Shilpa Raju, provided a platform for Massey to inspire others with his journey. His story serves as a beacon for aspiring artists, demonstrating that resilience, talent, and authenticity can overcome industry barriers and leave a lasting legacy in entertainment.
